I have been having a dilemma with body paint for my Starfire costume for a while now as I need something water proof, long lasting and something that's not going to cost an arm and a leg :S I have been looking into pros-aide but the prices in the UK are stupid and the postage and P&P in the US are super stupid!

So today I thought about purchasing good quality dark fake tan and just layering it up?

I definitely need something... I am so white I could glow in the dark -.-

Fake tan is a good option, but sometimes you can come across people who look down on others who fake tan for cosplay and have it in their heads that they're being racist or 'blackfacing' which isn't the case when you're just trying to be accurate. Plus you can't really filter who does actually use fake tan in real life. I thought I'd point this out though in case you run across one of these people who seem to be sensitive about the issue.

Always fake tan if you just want to go browner, it's purposely made to stay on! Whereas bodypaint is suppose to be easier to wash off (Except the theatrical paints). It'll look far more natural with fake tan as well, just make sure you don't just go for any old brand. Look up reviews.

A few of my friends fake tan and I thought they had actually gone on holiday! But same said friends have been through some pretty bad fake tans in the past so it's all about experimenting. Pick out the right one for you before you do the cosplay or else you may look rather orange hahaha.

The weather isn't great atm anyway, perfect opportunity to test different brands on your legs or torso!

Quote Angel Tear:Fake tan is a good option, but sometimes you can come across people who look down on others who fake tan for cosplay and have it in their heads that they're being racist or 'blackfacing' which isn't the case when you're just trying to be accurate.

As "one of those people" I'd say it's irrelevant here. Starfire seems to be a gold/bronze colour not found in humans. Fake tan should be fine for this as long as the OP doesn't end up looking like someone from TOWIE or Jersey Shore. (Which would be unfortunate rather than racially insensative)